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Casey wants a Miracle

Former Pirates first baseman Sean Casey has set up a charitable foundation, Casey’s Clubhouse, to raise funds to build a Miracle League field in Upper St. Clair.

Miracle League fields allow physically and mentally challenged kids to play baseball. The specially designed fields have softer surfaces to prevent injuries and wheelchair-accessible dugouts.

In May 2009, a Miracle League field constructed with financial help from Pirates Charities opened in Cranberry, Robinson Township. When he played for the Reds, Casey helped raise funds for a field in Cincinnati.

“The South Hills needs one too,” Casey said. “There are 90,000 kids in Southwestern Pennsylvania who have a disability. One field is not enough. We need to get these fields all over Pittsburgh. I’m on a quest to make that happen.”

Casey hopes to open his field by Fall 2011. He’s gotten approval to build near the Rec Center on Mayview Road and has lined up local construction firm P J Dick to do the heavy lifting.

Casey figures he’ll need to raise about $1 million to complete the project. Donations can be made via the Web site www.caseysclubhouse.org.

“At the end of the day, when we’re all gone, hopefully, there’s a legacy for kids that’s left here with this field,” Casey said. “Kids of all ages and disabilities can go there and be a part of baseball and just be a part of the community. Why shouldn’t these kids be able to play baseball just like any other kid? Why shouldn’t their parents be able to sit in the stands and watch their kids play and see the joy in their faces?”